title: Metabolic impact of sex chromosomes.
abstract: Obesity and associated metabolic diseases are sexually dimorphic. To provide better diagnosis and treatment for both sexes, it is of interest to identify the factors that underlie male/female differences in obesity. Traditionally, sexual dimorphism has been attributed to effects of gonadal hormones, which influence numerous metabolic processes. However, the XX/XY sex chromosome complement is an additional factor that may play a role. Recent data using the four core genotypes mouse model have revealed that sex chromosome complement-independently from gonadal sex-plays a role in adiposity, feeding behavior, fatty liver and glucose homeostasis. Potential mechanisms for the effects of sex chromosome complement include differential gene dosage from X chromosome genes that escape inactivation, and distinct genomic imprints on X chromosomes inherited from maternal or paternal parents. Here we review recent data in mice and humans concerning the potential impact of sex chromosome complement on obesity and metabolic disease.
authors.affiliation: Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles; CA USA.
authors.forename: Jenny C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Link
authors.forename: Xuqi
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Arthur P
authors.initials: AP
authors.lastname: Arnold
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Reue
keywords: circadian rhythm; fatty liver; food intake; metabolic disease; obesity; sex differences